Google is introducing mandatory verification for all Android developers. Authors from countries under US sanctions will not be able to pass it, so their applications, including programs from RuStore, will not be installable abroad in the usual way.
Inside Russia, the scheme works in reverse: Google will exempt local smartphones from verification. Users will be able to continue installing applications from unregistered authors, but without the additional protection for which the new system is being introduced.
The restriction will affect certified devices with Android 7 and newer. The mechanism will be delivered through Google Play services, and developers will have to confirm their identity, address, and contacts. A full account will cost $25.
For unverified applications, Google will leave an extended mode. It will have to be enabled separately, the smartphone restarted, and a day waited. The company explains the changes by combating malware, but F-Droid, Tor Project, Proton, Brave, AdGuard, and other projects fear that Google will gain more control over independent stores.